Ethics Flashcards
what are the 3 laws of medical ethics?
Laws
guidelines and recommendations
ethics
what is autonomy?
free will, dignity and duty to protect patients own rights
what is liberalism?
the right of the individual to freedom from the interference of others
influences autonomy
give 2 legal reasons why consent is important in healthcare?
battery (unlawful touching) could apply if you act without a valid patient’s consent, even if the patient is not harmed
negligence can be claimed if relevant or the right amount of information is not provided
consent vs contract?
consent can be withdrawn at any time without penalty and must be respected immediately
consent is not binding
does consent always need a signature?
no
can be given verbally or implied
what are the GMC guidelines for consent?
a competent adult must agree in advance to any treatment or investigation
a competent adult can refuse any treatment or investigation
a competent adult can refuse any treatment but cannot demand treatment
how can you improve a patient’s capacity to consent?
use simple and clear language
suggest they bring a relative or friend etc
use visual support materials
what can impair a patients capacity for consent?
unspoken anxieties
fear of pain
other underlying problems
what are the 3 components of informed consent which the patient must be able to do?
understand the treatment and weigh up potential benefits and risks and side effects
retain the information provided
weigh up and communicate their decision
can people under 16 give informed consent?
sometimes
depending on their maturity and ability to understand what is involved
are adults assumed to be competent?
yes
unless shown to lack capacity
what are the requirements for valid consent?
capacity/competence - ability to give or withdraw consent
information - patient given enough and can understand the information given
voluntariness - making decision voluntarily, not coerced
when can you treat a patient without their consent?
if the treatment is immediately necessary to save a patients life or to prevent serious deterioration
